Snowshoe Lakes Nature Reserve protects very old forest in the interior of Annapolis County, near the confluence of the east and west branches of Medway River.

Part of the reserve contains some of the oldest known eastern hemlock in the province, with some trees predating European settlement in Nova Scotia (exceeding 450 years of age). Old hemlocks are found through much of the remainder of the site, often in association with mature red spruce.

A forestry road which bisects the nature reserve is not within the boundary – ongoing vehicle use is unaffected.

Surrounding Crown lands are managed by the Medway Community Forest Cooperative. Nova Scotia Environment and the Forest Cooperative intend to coordinate stewardship of the lands in this area.